In a decisive move to enhance regulatory oversight and worker safety in Guyana’s booming oil and gas sector, staff from the Ministry of Labour have embarked on an intensive training programme focused on offshore operations.
The three-day Floating Production Storage and Offloading (FPSO) Operations Training Programme, conducted by Global People Services and Management Consultants Incorporated, is designed to deepen participants’ understanding of FPSO design, operations, and technology. The initiative aims to equip labour and Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) officers with the technical and practical skills needed to address the complex challenges presented by offshore oil production.
Chief Labour Officer Dhaneshwar Deonarine, speaking at the opening ceremony, emphasized the critical role of ministry staff in safeguarding workers’ rights and ensuring safe working environments, particularly given the high-risk nature of offshore operations. He described the training as essential preparation for officers who now serve as the “guardians of workers’ rights,†responsible for upholding safety standards and regulatory compliance in a rapidly evolving industry.
The training includes hands-on sessions and expert-led workshops, with a focus on operational efficiency, risk management, and emergency response. Each session features participation from both labour and OSH officers, reflecting a collaborative approach to strengthening institutional capacity.
This initiative comes amid ongoing consultations with trade unions and industry stakeholders to modernize Guyana’s labour laws and regulations in line with international best practices. The Ministry’s proactive approach is seen as a necessary response to the expanding demands of the oil and gas sector, where technical skills and robust oversight are increasingly vital.
As Guyana’s offshore oil production accelerates, the Ministry of Labour’s investment in staff training underscores its commitment to ensuring that the nation’s workforce and regulatory frameworks keep pace with industry growth. The programme is expected to not only improve workplace safety and compliance but also contribute to the sustainable development of Guyana’s energy sector.
